Exercise May Help Memory Problems

Regular Walking Reduces Dementia Risks

Can exercise delay the onset of Alzheimer's Disease or dementia? Can regular walking improve memory? A study published in September 2008 found improved memory scores and reduced dementia scores in people with mild cognitive impairment who were part of a 24-week home-based exercise program. The participants generally used walking as their chosen exercise and were encouraged to walk for 50 minutes, three times a week.

Walking Improves Memory Scores

The study followed 138 people who already had mild cognitive impairment. The researchers found that participants in the exercise group had better scores on the Alzheimer Disease Assessment Scale–Cognitive Subscale scores and delayed recall than those in a control group. The exercise group also had lower Clinical Dementia Rating scores.

The study authors noted that, so far, medication has not been shown to improve scores for those with mild cognitive impairment. "Physical activity has the advantage of health benefits that are not confined to cognitive function alone, as suggested by findings on depression, quality of life, falls, cardiovascular function, and disability." the study authors concluded.

_Source:

Nicola T. Lautenschlager, MD; Kay L. Cox, PhD; Leon Flicker, MBBS, PhD; Jonathan K. Foster, DPhil; Frank M. van Bockxmeer, PhD; Jianguo Xiao, MD, PhD; Kathryn R. Greenop, PhD; Osvaldo P. Almeida, MD, PhD. "Effect of Physical Activity on Cognitive Function in Older Adults at Risk for Alzheimer Disease" JAMA. 2008;300(9):1027-1037.